A 45-year-old man, Olajide Taiwo, has been arraigned before Magistrate L.A. Owolabi of the Ogba Magistrates’ Court, Lagos, over alleged theft of 1,412 litres of engine oil, valued at N409,152.

Taiwo is facing two counts bordering on conspiracy and stealing.

The charges read in part, “That you, Olajide Taiwo, and others at large, on May 19, 2022, around 1pm in the Ikeja Magisterial District, did steal 1,412 litres of engine oil, valued at N409,152 only, belonging to GPC Energy and Logistics Limited at 4B, Regina Coker Street, off Ajao Road, Ikeja, Lagos.”

The police prosecutor, Josephine Ikhayere, said the offences were punishable under sections 411 and 287 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria, 2015.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The defence counsel, Olayinka Kujembola, informed the court that a discussion to resolve the matter was on between the complainant and the defendant.

He said, “The information has been extended to the prosecutor, and I have also discussed with the defendant; he is open to settlement.”

Magistrate Owolabi gave one month for the exploration of settlement, adding that the defendant should come up with a payment proposal.

The matter was adjourned till August 31, 2022, for continuation of trial.